At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead quality assurance for innovative energy projects and ensure top-notch standards.
- Company: Join Rolls-Royce SMR, a pioneer in clean energy technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous holiday, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with a commitment to continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety-critical projects that shape a sustainable future.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or Science; experience in quality assurance preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 78750 £ per year.
About Us
At Rolls‑Royce SMR, we’re on a mission to deliver clean, affordable and resilient energy through pioneering small modular reactor technology. We're building something that matters—innovative solutions that contribute to a safer, more sustainable future for everyone.
The Team
This opportunity sits within our Health, Safety, Environment & Quality (HSEQ) function, with close day‑to‑day integration alongside project delivery teams. You’ll work collaboratively with project managers, engineering leads, supply chain colleagues and customer representatives, as well as regulatory bodies accountable for quality standards. Success in this role relies on strong influence, partnership and communication across a diverse group of stakeholders.
The Role
As a Customer Quality Assurance Manager (CQAM), you will be embedded within one or more project delivery teams, providing leadership on all quality‑related activities. You’ll be the primary contact for customer quality matters and play a key role in ensuring every SMR new‑build project meets its quality commitments throughout the full lifecycle. You’ll develop and implement customer‑specific quality strategies and robust Project Quality Assurance Plans, integrating quality into each phase of delivery. Working alongside engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning teams, you will help embed the right processes, standards and assurance measures. You will oversee key assurance activities—including audits, inspections, testing and non‑conformance management—while championing continuous improvement and integrating lessons learned from nuclear and other regulated industries. Your leadership will support “right‑first‑time” project delivery and help ensure compliance with nuclear regulatory expectations, internal IMS procedures and contractual requirements.
What We Need You To Deliver
Develop and maintain project‑specific Quality Management Plans and quality strategies across design, procurement, construction, commissioning and handover.
Lead and coordinate assurance activities such as audits, inspections, testing and non‑conformance resolution.
Build trusted, transparent relationships with customer quality teams, ensuring high‑quality communication on performance, risks and improvement opportunities.
Champion quality within project teams and drive meaningful, measurable continuous improvement.
Short‑Term Success
A fully approved Quality Management Plan for each assigned project.
Project‑specific quality procedures (e.g., inspection and test plans, audit schedules) in place.
Early audits—internal, supplier or customer—showing no major non‑conformances.
Positive, constructive relationships established with customer quality representatives.
Long‑Term Success
Delivery of major project milestones without quality‑related delays or regulatory challenges.
Accurate, complete and controlled quality records handed over in line with licensing and operational requirements.
A project quality approach recognised as a benchmark, supported by continuous improvements that drive efficiency and performance.
A high‑performing, engaged quality team contributing to a strong quality and safety culture.
A “right‑first‑time” outcome that enhances customer confidence and protects project cost, schedule and safety.
What This Role Offers You
This is a visible, influential role where your judgement, communication skills and commitment to quality will make a significant impact on complex, safety‑critical projects. It’s an ideal opportunity for someone who values collaboration, resilience and delivering trusted outcomes.
What You’ll Bring
A degree in Engineering, Science or equivalent practical experience.
Experience in quality assurance within safety‑critical or complex engineering projects.
Strong capability in leading assurance activities such as audits, inspections and non‑conformance management.
Experience in a Nuclear Environment or Project.
Location & Ways of Working
This role can be based in Derby, Manchester or Warrington. It includes travel to customer sites, suppliers and manufacturing or construction locations. Some international travel may be required. Flexible and part‑time working options are available.
Salary: £60,000 – £78,750
£2,200 benefit allowance
12.5% bonus opportunity
6× pensionable life assurance
50% income protection
28 days holiday plus bank holidays
£250 new joiner payment
Selection Process
Our process typically includes an initial conversation, a competency‑based interview and role‑specific assessments. Successful candidates will also complete BPSS screening and financial probity checks.
Inclusion Matters
We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected and able to thrive. If you’re excited about the role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply—your potential matters to us.
Pay Range: £60,000.00-£78,750.00
Why Join Us?
You’ll be joining a forward-thinking organisation that values transparency, fairness, and innovation. We offer:
- A flexible, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
- Opportunities for career growth in a rapidly scaling business.
- A culture that values diversity, innovation, and continuous learning.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Inclusivity is important to us, and as a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to fair, supportive, and continually improving recruitment practices that ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Confidence can sometimes hold us back from applying for a job. But we'll let you in on a secret: there's no such thing as a 'perfect' candidate. If you feel you meet 75% of the requirements for this role, we would love to hear from you. Also, if you are considering a career move or a sector-jump, please get in touch – we welcome applications from people with transferable skills.
Our Application Process
Due to the safety regulations within the nuclear industry, applicants will be required to participate in additional screening. These are:
- Obtaining Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance
- Satisfactory completion of a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
- Satisfactory completion of a basic financial probity check
Customer Quality Manager in Derby employer: Rolls-Royce SMR Limited
At Rolls-Royce SMR, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a flexible and inclusive work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through numerous career development opportunities within our rapidly scaling business, all while contributing to meaningful projects that promote a sustainable future. With competitive benefits, including a generous pension scheme and a supportive culture that values diversity, we ensure that every team member feels respected and empowered to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Customer Quality Manager in Derby
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Rolls-Royce SMR on LinkedIn or through industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding their projects and values. Show how your experience aligns with their mission of delivering clean energy. We want to see your passion for quality and safety!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills. As a Customer Quality Manager, you'll need to influence and collaborate with various teams. Role-play common interview scenarios to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Rolls-Royce SMR.
We think you need these skills to ace Customer Quality Manager in Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Customer Quality Manager. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've led quality assurance activities or improved processes in previous roles. We want to see the impact you've made!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role. We appreciate clarity as much as quality!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rolls-Royce SMR Limited
✨Know Your Quality Standards
Familiarise yourself with the quality standards relevant to the nuclear industry and Rolls-Royce SMR specifically. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve applied these standards in past roles, especially in safety-critical projects.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Customer Quality Assurance Manager, you'll need to lead assurance activities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in managing audits and inspections, to demonstrate your leadership capabilities.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your experience in building trusted relationships with stakeholders. Think of specific instances where your communication skills helped resolve issues or improve quality outcomes, as this role relies heavily on collaboration.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Be ready to discuss how you've championed continuous improvement in previous roles. Share concrete examples of how you've integrated lessons learned into quality processes, as this will resonate well with the expectations of the role.
